A small
votive sculpture from Nepal's far west. These are found in
myriad forms but it is true that there are several forms that we
find again and again. The purpose of these metal figures also
varies - they may be votive, tribute or funerary or propitiative.
One can typically get some idea of the particular application of
a given figure by its particular form.

The small figures like this
are votive and are commissioned by devout people for placement
at temples or shrines. Usually they a votive in the sense
of being crafted as a token of thanks to the prayers answered by
the deity. Conversely this form might also be donated to a
shrine as an act of propitiation, in hopes of currying the
deities favor.